Do it, don't just talk about it!

"But don't just listen to God's Word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves."               James 1:22   NLT 

For the last ten years of my professional career, I worked in a hospice helping people with pre and post bereavement issues. One thing that used to crop up on a regular basis was, 'There is never enough time.' A lot of the people who were at the last stage of their lives, would quote this phrase when they said that they had always planned to do a certain thing or go to a special place. Now of course, it was not so easy to do and they had a deep regret.

Life is short and, we should do what we can now and not leave it on the back boiler until it is too late. In life, I have observed that there are doers and the one's that speak about it but, never seem to get round to doing what they should do or have promised to do. James brings this home to us with the above verse, 'But don't just listen to God's Word. You must do what it says.' In plain terms, stop just talking about it, make it a reality and put your thoughts into action, while you can.

It is very important to listen to what God's Word says, but it is far more important to put it into action by doing it. We often read the bible and a gem pops out that you know is for you. However, do you act on it? It may be that God is calling you to do some work for Him, you may agree that it is needed, and be excited that God has chosen you, but what next? Do you put this word into action? Do you get on with the mission - whatever it may be, or do you sit on it in the guise that you want to give it some thought before you do anything? Consideration is good but, not at the cost of sitting there and not doing anything.

Be honest, in the past, has God asked you to do a particular task for Him? It may have been large or small. The thing is, did you do it? If so, what was the outcome? If not, why not? God trusts you and when He gives you things to do, he ensures that you are ably qualified to carry this out. Don't worry, if you didn't do what He asked you to do, He is not going to block your way into heaven but, you do need to tell Him that you're sorry and ask if the task is still open, will He give you another opportunity.

Like the people I mentioned at the beginning of this commentary, don't allow yourself to live in regret. God only has the best for you and, this may be to start a new career, business or to work for Him. You'll never know until you try though.

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

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Don't let things get you down

"We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed "     2 Corinthians 4:9   NLT 

Disappointments can turn up in our life when we least expect them. We may be looking forward to a certain thing and suddenly, it has been changed and there appears to be an empty space in our hearts. At this stage, if we're not careful, it would be easy to become upset. However, these things happen and we need to make a space for them.

Some people have a lived a life of disappointment and therefore, find it very difficult to accept when they are let down. They can take it personally feeling that it is the story of their life. This is not the attitude to take, things happen and even though being let down hurts, they can't be avoided and there is always the room for things to be re-negotiated.

Our text today, tells us, 'We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.' Being let down hurts, it's true but, we need to be open to change. James tells us, 'when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy'  (James 1:2). Notice that James doesn't say 'if trouble comes your way,' but, 'when it does.' James knew that troubles come to all of us and we need to find a way to handle it. He tells us to 'consider it an opportunity for great joy.' James is not saying that we should pretend to be happy when we are not by putting a smile on our face. Not at all, but he is encouraging us to have a positive outlook about it all. Things will change, there will be other opportunities.

This is how we can get back up again when we are knocked down. This way, we avoid being destroyed and keep our peace about it all. Can you remember those inflatable, blow up children's toys from a few years ago. They were about three feet high and one could knock them down but they would spring back up again. They had a happy smile on their faces. This is how we need to be - not putting on a false smile but, having the grace to let people or situations off the hook when they have let us down. 

Don't allow yourself to become hurt by discouragement and disappointment; it's temporary and will soon be changed and re-scheduled. This includes something that you are waiting to have delivered or someone who was due to visit you. Don't let these things get you down. When you get knocked down (and you will,) spring back up again like the children's toy. 

Just find an opportunity to praise God and be joyful. That is how to live.

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

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Being led astray

"Those who lead good people along an evil path will fall into their own trap, but the honest will inherit good things."                  Proverbs 28:10  NLT 

As I was walking Charlie, our Dog this morning, I felt God showing me the perils of being led astray. Even though we are dog owners and we should have control of them, a dog will always push its luck and head for whatever direction it fancies. If we allow this, we will end up in the road, with lots of traffic; we'll end up going the wrong way or they will chase after some other dog with us hanging on frantically. Charlie is like this. If he is on the short lead he pulls but he is under control. However, when I extend the lead, if I am not careful he will pull me anywhere he chooses.

As I thought about it I saw the analogy God was pointing out. If we are not careful, we can be led into situations that we shouldn't be in. This could be people leading us into situations, or us being foolish enough to test things out that we know are wrong. This easily happens when we are in a crowd of people. Some are very persuasive and make things sound as if there's no problem here, 'it'll be all right.' Many times it isn't and we can end up regretting what we have done.

Drinking too much alcohol can be unwise because it can lead us into the 'It'll be all right' mode. If we're not careful, we can be led into drinking endless shots until we don't know what day it is. We'll have been led into a dangerous position. Also, spending money that we really can't afford can be unwise. Peer pressure can lead us to using our credit cards. It's easy when you don't have to part with the money at the time. However, when the bill comes in, we can hold our heads in terror when we see how much we have spent. 

Many husbands and wives may have separate nights out with their friends. If this includes alcohol, pretty soon when the drinks take over, they can end up getting involved in relationships that should never happen. Just one act of adultery can shatter a marriage and your life forever. Is it worth it? Don't be led astray, be led by the Holy Spirit.

Scripture says: ‘So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves,'  Galatians 5:16 NLT. The Spirit of God will always lead you into the truth of Jesus Christ. He should never be left out of your life for a moment. It is essential that He accompanies you wherever to go. Live each day controlled and guided by the Holy Spirit. Then the words of Christ will be in your mind, the love of Christ will be behind your reactions and the power of Christ will help you control your selfish desires.

This is the way to live your Daily Life with Jesus.

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

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A Walk in the Garden

'I made gardens and parks, filling them with all kinds of fruit trees."   

                                                                               Ecclesiastes  2:5.  NLT

 Picture the scene, God just ambling along through His garden enjoying His creation. There is something very refreshing and comforting when we have the time to just stroll through a nice garden or park on a summer evening. The smell of the flowers, the bees humming as they hover around the flowers. Although there are more creatures around, the blackbird appears more prominent as he sings his song, so loud and melodic. It is so rewarding and the stress and busy-ness of the day, seems to disappear as one enjoys the serenity of it all.

We need this time out. The stress of life can bring us down and make us a wreck if we allow it. Whether we have a full time busy job, work from home or are retired, the pressure can be intense and a relaxing walk in the peace and quiet of the countryside or park, is so beneficial. We see from our text today that, God instructed Solomon to create gardens and parks. God Himself walked through His own garden Genesis 3:8, so God knew that we needed this kind of relaxation and exercise. 

Exercise is good for the human body. The average person spends about 40 hours or so every week watching TV. Reckon that up and that's a lot of hours slumped on the sofa, eating chocolate, popcorn, crisps and other stuff. The only time they get up is to go to the bathroom and then it's back to the sofa. Then, when their clothes don't seem to fit, they consider that losing weight would be a good idea. They may start some exercise but, this lasts a week and they're back to the sofa.

Going to the gym is good; so is jogging but if you don't do something about your diet, you're on a hiding to nothing. Walking is so easy to do; just a stroll around your neighbourhood can be beneficial. However, with just a little more determination, you can quicken your pace and before too long, you will begin to feel better.

Many of you reading this right now are coming under conviction about this. You know God has been whispering in your ear about getting fit, but it's so easy to think, 'That's me, not God'. If that is so, why do you feel convicted about this? Be honest, you know you need to shed some weight and you know you're out of breath just thinking about it. God's not asking you to be the next Olympic Gold Medalist; He just wants you fit. So, why not give it a go today - yes today! Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today, otherwise you'll never do it.

Just go for a walk in a garden or park for 30 minutes or so and, make it a regular habit in your life. Your Daily Life with Jesus will benefit.

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

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Honesty

"The LORD was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master. 3Potiphar noticed this and realized that the LORD was with Joseph, giving him success in everything he did. 4This pleased Potiphar, so he soon made Joseph his personal attendant. He put him in charge of his entire household and everything he owned."   Genesis 39:2-4   NLT

Being hardworking, honest and reliable, opens door for people; they are noticed because they stand out in the crowd as different. Joseph was an honest young man. Even though he was treated abysmally by his brothers and sold into slavery, there is no reports that he was angry about this, kicking up a fuss. He appears to have taken it on the chin and accepted the position he was in from the start. Pretty soon, Potiphar noticed his honesty and reliability and placed him in charge of his whole household. Sadly though, all did not go to plan, and because of his good looks, Potiphar's wife sought to have sex with him. Joseph refused and fled from the house. Potiphar's wife called rape, and he was found guilty of this act and thrown into prison.

Note, just because you are honest and reliable, this does not exclude you from spiritual attack. The devil does not like you. Most of the people around you, show you favour but, the devil offers hate and contempt and he will go flat out to discredit you. This is what happened to Joseph, But Joseph didn't make a big scene out of it, he just gave it to God and prepared for His 'get out of jail card'.

Being honest means you are reliable. Someone can trust you to look after their house while they're away, a boss can place you in charge of his company and knows he can trust you. Being this way, brings you favour with people - it opens doors. God knows that He can entrust you with greater works. He sees your hard work, your reliability and the fruit you bear. Therefore, His favour is upon you and He blesses you for your faithfulness.

You may be honest and reliable but, have been treated very badly by someone which has led you to lose your job and/or, your credibility. God has seen this and how you have handled it. If you have handled it well, God will sort it. If you've handled it not so well, repent and then God will sort it. You don't have to do anything, unless God tells you to. He will bring about success out of this bad episode. Just continue to be honest, reliable and faithful and, He will do the rest.

The words for your Daily Life with Jesus today is, 'Don't worry!'

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

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God wants to share His heart with you

"Wisdom shouts in the streets. She cries out in the public square.21She calls to the crowds along the main street, to those gathered in front of the city gate: 22“How long, you simpletons, will you insist on being simpleminded? How long will you mockers relish your mocking? How long will you fools hate knowledge? 23Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise."  Proverbs 1:20-23  NLT

Every moment of every day, God wants each of us to walk in wisdom. In every situation we find ourselves in, God is telling us to get wisdom on whatever we are faced with. Wisdom is not a living being but, the mind of God revealed. If you want to see wisdom in action, just read your bible and watch Jesus. See how He speaks and acts with individuals; watch how He handles difficult situations. This is how He wants us to be each day.

God offers us the chance to spend time learning about wisdom. He says: ''Come and listen to My counsel. I'll share My heart with you and make you wise' v23. What an amazing offer He gives us - He offers to share His heart with us.' How incredible is that? 

The wise give encouragement, the foolish lack common sense, and we will only be able to give encouragement when God equips us with His knowledge. Wisdom promotes what is right, lack of wisdom promotes the opposite. Whatever God promotes, Satan promotes the opposite. This is why wisdom is so important and God wants to share His heart with you about it.

Just ponder that for a moment. Jesus wants to share His heart with you. The one who created the world and died and was resurrected for each of us, is still offering His love and care. James 1:5 instructs you to ask God for wisdom and receive it. You must not waver in receiving this, rather like a yoyo - one minute up, the next down. You must act and receive it in a solid manner. It is serious stuff, possibly like the difference between heaven and hell and life and death. Don't reject God's offer.

Whatever you are doing to day, try and take some time out and think about all of this.We all mess up at times; we all make the wrong choices. But ask yourself, 'Am I acting in wisdom? Do I seek God's heart before I make a decision, or do I just plunge in and hope for the best? Today God offers you the chance to sit with Him and allow Him to share His heart with you. Are you going to take Him up on His offer?

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

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Don't be enticed

"My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!11They may say, “Come and join us. Let’s hide and kill someone! Just for fun, let’s ambush the innocent!
12Let’s swallow them alive, like the graveb; let’s swallow them whole, like those who go down to the pit of death.13Think of the great things we’ll get! We’ll fill our houses with all the stuff we take.14Come, throw in your lot with us; we’ll all share the loot.”15My child, don’t go along with them! Stay far away from their paths.
16They rush to commit evil deeds. They hurry to commit murder. 17If a bird sees a trap being set, it knows to stay away.18But these people set ambush for themselves; they are trying to get themselves killed. 19Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; it robs them of life."  Proverbs 1:10-19. NLT

If we're not careful, we can be easily enticed, 'Come and join us' they my say. This is usually ok where people are like-minded e.g. a Christian like yourself. When they are not and you have befriended them, just be careful that you don't get carried away with  their ways of enjoying themselves. For instance, drugs, too much alcohol, and wild parties. It is so easy to be led away when you are not in control. For teens, there is peer pressure and v11 speaks loudly about this, 'Let's hide and kill someone. Just for fun, let's ambush the innocent.' This may account for some of the stabbings and murders on our streets almost everyday. Like ASBO's were a badge of merit, it now seems that stabbing someone has taken its place. Kids are led astray; they want to look good in front of the others, even at the cost of someone's life. Then there are the muggings; robbing people, again on the streets to get hold of what they can to feed their habits. It certainly is a dangerous place to live at times.

Some feel that theft can be a good way of becoming rich; break into a house and take the trimmings, hold someone up on the street to rob them. If you are a teen and reading this, do not let anyone entice you and lead you astray. It's a dangerous walk to take and, you will get found out.
You may not have a lot of money and you may be living from benefit to benefit/pay cheque to pay cheque, struggling every inch of the way. Someone may say, 'I know a way you can earn a little extra money. Why don't you come and join us. There's no harm in it, let's face it, others do it. You won't get caught.' etc. etc.' Don't fall for this. It is a temptation to follow someone else's wrong doing and, you will get caught out in the end. 
Do not listen to the tempting whispers and the false advice about fiddling the taxman, having extra jobs and not declaring what you earn. Do not fall for the offer to push some drugs, or offer sexual favours to make ends meet. Some do it and many are caught and the shame is loud when you read about yourself in the evening news. 
DO NOT BE ENTICED, IT WILL BRING YOU NOTHING BUT HEARTACHE. LET JESUS HELP YOU INSTEAD.

Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

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